Eric Sekator Thomas

Eric Sekator Thomas "'Racket" September 9, 1949 - October 6, 2019 "Artist, Visionary, Educator" Eric Sekator Thomas, 70 of Galisteo, New Mexico passed away at St. Vincent Hospital in Santa Fe, New Mexico Sunday, October 6, 2019, surrounded by his loving family. Born in South Kingstown, Rhode Island, he was a son of the late John N., Sr. & Margaret S. Thomas, In his younger days Eric had a full scholarship to attend Rhode Island School of Design and instead got called into a heros journey of liberating his tribe and creating their sovereignty. This odyssey took Eric 25 years, but he did succeed, and the Narragansett Indian Tribe received Federal Recognition on April 11, 1983. During this time he also helped to found South County Community Action as well as the establishment of Plymouth Plantation Village and cultural programming...what an extraordinary slice of history. He is a legend among his family, friends and peers. Before leaving this earth, Eric completed his two goals; first, to exhibit as a validated modem artist at the Santa Fe Indian Market and second, a solo show of his work at Marcia McCoy Studio in Truth or Consequences, New Mexico; both shows were received with great awe and respect of the artist and his concept. The union figure "Scout" will be going to either the Wheel Wright Museum in Santa Fe or the Smithsonian. Erics genius will be greatly missed along with his many contributions too numerous to mention. He is survived by his companion of fifteen years David Van Dyk; two brothers John N. Thomas, II of New Mexico and Matthew Thomas of Florida; three sisters, Mary Jane Banfield of Charlestown; Cynthia A. Blunt of Wakefield and Norma F. Thomas of Westerly, Rhode Island; two sons; Bragan S. Thomas and Byron R Thomas; three grandchildren; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and friends. He was the brother of the late; Robert T. Thomas, Charles T. Thomas, William H.. Thomas, Peter D. Thomas and Margaret T.(Rockie) Thomas. A memorial service will be held at 1 pm on Saturday November 2, 2019 at the Narragansett Indian Longhouse, South County Trail, Charlestown.